December, for many, is the best time of the year.
With kids on school holiday and being able to spend time with family and friends, it is truly a mini-celebration in itself.
As the UAE is one of the best spots for all things entertainment and fun, there are no limitations to the events happening and this month is really an amazing one.
Make the most of this time of the year and jot down these unmissable events in your calendars as ones to definitely head down to.
The Lion King - Till 10 December
Sing along to the iconic 'Circle Of Life' at the brilliant live Broadway show of The Lion King. Having made its premiere in 1997, the show has gone on to reach over 110 million people in 21 different countries. Held at Etihad Arena, the musical is currently making its Abu Dhabi debut during its 25th year. The show is based on the animated film and follows Simba's journey as he becomes king. Prices for the show begin at Dhs 200.
www.etihadarena.ae
Abida Parveen - 9 December
Delight in a spectacular show with one of Pakistan's most highly acclaimed singers, Abida Parveen. With magnificent Sufi music, be one with music and enjoy a performance at Coca-Cola Arena from the 'queen of Qawwalis, ghazals and kafis'. Ticket prices start at Dhs 100.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
Guy Manoukian - 9 December
Returning for another amazing performance, Guy Manoukian will perform at Dubai Opera. The one-day concert will see the Lebanese-Armenian musician, composer and pianist perform a great show, after recently performing at the Sydney Opera House and L'Olympia in Paris. Prices start at Dhs 275.
www.dubaiopera.com
Sole DXB - 9 to 11 December
The 10th edition of Sole DXB is happening this month and will bring the worlds of music, fashion, visual arts and sports to one place. The four-day event at Dubai Design District will also see amazing performances from artists, including Central Cee and Jorja Smith, as well as installations from popular brands. Prices for tickets start at Dhs 375.
www.soledxb.com
Bi-2 - 10 December
Bi-2, the popular indie rock band from Belarus, is set to take the stage this month at Coca-Cola Arena. With an impressive collection of ten studio albums, the show will use incredible scenography, light shows and visual effects for a show to remember. Ticket prices start at Dhs 245.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
Hooverphonic - 10 December
Hooverphonic, the Belgian band, known for their distinctive music, will perform in December at Dubai Opera. Part of the music industry since 1995, the band have produced hit music for 25 years, which has been featured in several films and television shows. Listen to songs including 'Anger Never Dies', 'Eden', 'Mad About You', 'Romantic' and more, with prices starting at Dhs 275.
www.dubaiopera.com
Le Trio Joubran - 11 December
Performing for the first time at Dubai Opera is Le Trio Joubran. The brother trio, Samir, Wissam and Adnan, come from generations of Oud players and will bring a brilliant performance playing traditional Palestinian music, sure to leave you in awe. Ticket prices start at Dhs 195.
www.dubaiopera.com
Bagong Pilipinas Tagalog Rap Festival - 11 December
The king of Pinoy pop, Andrew E, is ready to set the stage on fire with an incredible performance at the Bagong Pilipinas Tagalog Rap Festival. Held at Coca-Cola Arena, performing alongside Andrew E are, Jawtee, 3 Digitz, Crazzy G., Mananabaz, Endang and Jhoan, Bastee and Donman, and Julius Tha Drummer. Prices start at Dhs 75.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
GITEX Shopper - 14 to 18 December
One of the highly acclaimed events of the year, GITEX Shopper, is back and will bring unmissable deals and offers to Dubai World Trade Centre. Enjoy amazing prices on top brands as well as daily prizes and draws. The five-day event will see the lowest prices on certain appliances, including gaming, leisure, electronics, smart appliances and more. Entry is free to all.
www.dwtc.com
Dubai Shopping Festival - 15 December to 19 January 2023
The highly awaited Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is back for its 28th edition. The annual 46-day festival will see amazing shopping deals, new dining experiences, raffles and draws, hotel offers, entertainment and more, across malls in Dubai. The Etisalat MOTB at Burj Park, the DSF Drones Light Show and the captivating Dubai Lights Exhibition will also return.
The Nutcracker - 16 and 17 December
Avid ballet fans, get ready for the festive season by watching a breathtaking performance of The Nutcracker. The Christmas classic will be held at Dubai Opera and performed by the esteemed Moscow Ballet, La Classique. Delight in watching the world of Clara, her nutcracker doll and magician Drosselmeyer in person. Prices begin at Dhs 350.
www.dubaiopera.com
Blast Premier World Final - 17 and 18 December
Esport fans, get ready for a spectacular two-day event at Etihad Arena. Watch as some of the best esports teams in the world compete against one another to win a prize pool of $1 million as well as the title of champions of Counter-Strike. Prices start at Dhs 50.
www.etihadarena.ae
ELF The Musical - 17 to 24 December
The festive season is upon us, and rather than watching one of your favourite Christmas movies at home, catch the live show at The Theatre at the Mall of the Emirates. ELF The musical is based on Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who goes on a trip to find his birth father. Prices start at Dhs 100.
www.feverup.com
The Sound Of Christmas - 21 and 22 December
Delight in watching a magnificent performance by the Dubai Opera Big Band, but this time with Christmas as the theme. Held at Dubai Opera for two days, enjoy songs including 'Santa Baby', 'Winter Wonderland', 'Feliz Navidad', 'All I Want For Christmas Is You', and more are played. Ticket prices start at Dhs 215.
www.dubaiopera.com
World Tennis League - 19 to 24 December
The first edition of the World Tennis League is being held this month over six days at Coca-Cola Arena, and will see iconic tennis stars compete against one another, followed by a special music performance. Over the course of six days, enjoy performances from Tiësto, Ne-Yo, Deadmau5, Mohamed Ramadan and Armin van Buuren. Tickets start at Dhs 199.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
Kadim Al Sahir - 23 and 24 December
Arabic music singer, composer and songwriter Kadim Al Sahir is ready to bring his talent to Dubai Opera this month. Held for two days, the artist is known for hosting the most-attended Arabic concert of all time. With 100 million albums sold, get ready to listen to hits including 'Akrahouha', 'Ha Habibi' and more. Prices start at Dhs 550.
www.dubaiopera.com
Rahat Fateh Ali - 29 December
Coca-Cola Arena is ready to host the fifth concert for Rahat Fateh Ali. In an intimate style performance, the singer and artist will perform alongside a melodious orchestra. Delight in listening to songs including 'Teri Ore', 'Tum Jo Aaye', 'O Re Piya', 'Tere Mast Mast Do Nain' and more. Prices start at Dhs 99.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
Martin Garrix - 30 December
Making waves in the music industry since 2012 at the age of 16, Dutch DJ Martin Garrix is ready to close out the year with a bang. The one-night-only concert will see the artist perform at Coca-Cola Arena with hit tracks including 'Scared To Be Lonely', 'Animals', 'In The Name Of Love', 'Used To Love' and more. Prices start at Dhs 175.
www.coca-cola-arena.com